Gin has come a long way from its medicinal roots in the Middle Ages. Once simply a juniper-based tonic, it’s now one of the most versatile and vibrant spirits in the world. But behind every elegant pour lies a fascinating process of experimentation, precision, and creativity: gin crafting.

What Makes Gin... Gin?

At its heart, gin is a neutral spirit flavored predominantly with juniper berries. But beyond that, the world is your botanical oyster. Coriander seeds, angelica root, citrus peels, cardamom, orris root, lavender, rosemary—each ingredient adds a unique layer of flavor. No two gins are exactly alike, and that’s the beauty of it.

The Crafting Process

1. The Base Spirit
Every gin starts with a neutral base alcohol, typically distilled from grain. It's like a blank canvas—clean, high-proof, and flavorless, ready to absorb character.

2. Botanical Selection
This is where artistry meets chemistry. A gin maker carefully selects a blend of botanicals, balancing aromatics, bitterness, sweetness, and spice. Juniper leads the charge, but the supporting cast defines the personality.

3. Infusion or Distillation
Craft gin makers typically use one of three methods:

• Steeping: Soaking botanicals in the base spirit before redistilling.

• Vapor Infusion: Placing botanicals in a basket so vapors extract the flavors during distillation.

• Compounding: Infusing flavors without redistilling (less common in premium gin).

4. Bottling
After distillation, the gin is diluted to the desired ABV, usually around 40–45%. It’s then filtered and bottled—sometimes with added flavor infusions like citrus, berries, or even tea for modern twists.

Home Gin Crafting: A Modern Renaissance

You don’t need a commercial still to try gin crafting. Many enthusiasts experiment at home using botanical kits or vodka as a base. Infusing with ingredients like orange peel, juniper, and spices can produce surprisingly delicious results. Just remember: laws about distillation vary—so know what’s legal in your area.

The Creative Side of Gin

What sets gin apart from other spirits is its boundless variety. While whiskey matures over time and vodka aims for neutrality, gin thrives on imagination. Floral, earthy, spicy, citrusy—gin can wear many masks, which is why craft distillers and mixologists love it.

Final Thoughts

Crafting gin is about more than making alcohol—it's a form of storytelling. Each botanical tells part of the tale, and each bottle is an invitation to explore a world of flavors. Whether you're sipping it neat, blending it in a cocktail, or making your own at home, you're part of a centuries-old craft with a modern twist.